Loving A Lady

The Dukes' Ladies #10

by Abby Ayles

A Clean & Sweet Regency Historical Romance Book

She has to marry a man of status. He has nothing of the sort and is perfectly content with it. Soon they both realize that status is everything and nothing at all
Noelle is the daughter of the Duke of Salisbury. As the eldest daughter, she is expected to marry a titled man of status and fulfill her duty. In fact, her parents plan for her to marry the Marquess of Fairfax. An eligible suitor but a dashing rogue of a man in reality.

Rodrick Edwards is a gentleman of means who lives on his wealthy uncle's estate. He has no title or high status, but none of it seem to be important in his life. He has all he needs next to his mother and cousin James - the Viscount of Easton - who dote on him dearly.

When Rodrick and Lady Noelle meet at a ball at the Duke of Salisbury's London home, they feel as if they've found their equal. However, it’s completely inappropriate, especially since Noelle is supposed to meet the Marquess of Fairfax for the first time there.

But what happens when the Marquess is nowhere to be seen? And how will Noelle react when she finds out that Rodrick is mysteriously connected with the Marquess of Fairfax, the man she is supposed to marry? Surely it is a coincidence…Or is it not?

If you like engaging characters, heart- wrenching twists and turns, and lots of romance, then you’ll love “Loving A Lady!”

Buy “Loving A Lady” and unlock the exciting story of Noelle today!

"Loving A Lady" is a clean and sweet historical regency romance novel of approximately 85,000 words. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

Enjoy!

Genres: Historical Romance, Regency

341 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 9, 2018

About the author

Abby Ayles was born in the northern city of Manchester, England, but currently lives in Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband and their three cats. She holds a Master’s degree in History and Arts and worked as a history teacher in middle school.

Her greatest interest lies in the era of Regency and Victorian England and Abby shares her love and knowledge of these periods with many readers in her newsletter.

In addition to this she has also written her first romantic novel, The Duke's Secrets, which is set in the era and is available for free on her website. As one reader commented – ‘Abby’s writing makes you travel back in time…’

When she has time to herself, Abby enjoys going to the theatre, reading and watching documentaries about Regency and Victorian England.

Reviews

[Marti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Noelle is destined to marry a Duke. Marrying a commoner doesn’t even enter her mind, but she really likes Mr. Edwards and hopes they can be good friends. And off we go!
I loved the story, the characters, and the dialogue. Just a bit too many passages of description for my taste.

[Charlene Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book with many TWIST and turns

This is a great story about a young lady and her three sisters. Her parents have TOLD her that she must secure herself a husband this season and that he has to be a duke . At the ball her parents tell her she must save her first dance for the Duke of Fairfax who they hope will accept her as his future wife. SHE sits out several dances when a young Duke and his cousin ask her and her cousin for a dance. SHE persuades the Duke to dance with her cousin but informs the other gentleman that she must save the first dance for a certain Duke. He informs her that this is his cousin but her will not be attending the Ball tonight. What happens after is a lot of TWIST and turns in love and romance.

[Joy · Rating 3 out of 5]

SETTING: Noelle, eldest daughter of an earl, and her sister Catherine are “out” in society, looking for a husband. Unfortunately for Noelle, her mother has determined she will marry a certain Duke, whom Noelle has yet to meet. While waiting for his appearance at a ball, she meets and dances with a kind and compatible gentleman, who is untitled, rendering a match between them unlikely. Her sister Catherine is collecting suitors like as one collects signatures on a dance card. She flits from one to the other, leading them all on. Unfortunately for a certain young man, he falls for her only to have a painful letdown when a “friend” steals her right from under his eyes. This “friend” is the very man for whom Noelle’s mother had such hopes for marrying Noelle! Will Catherine continue her pursuit of Alphonse against the wishes of her parents, knowing it is her sister they want to marry him? Will Noelle be able to forgive her sister and find love elsewhere? Will the girl’s parents be able to now allow Noelle to choose a mate for herself? These are some of the problems that must be overcome in order to produce an HEA ending for all.
CRITIQUE: A clean story, easily read, appropriate for all ages. Class distinctions are set out as having little to do with a person’s goodness, and good character and behavior is seen as the better goal to pursue. When an untitled girl marries a Lord, and a Lady marries an untitled man who is the nephew of a Lord, it is clear to the reader that true happiness comes from marrying for love, not for maintaining or gaining status. This is a valuable lesson, even today.

[Priscilla Cook · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a story of young women looking to marry – with a mother expecting them to marry in line with their social status.

The Duke and Duchess of Salisbury have five daughters. Their oldest daughter, Noelle, is followed by Catherine (Kitty). Emily is the middle sister. The two younger sisters are not tasked with finding husbands because of their age. But Noelle, being the oldest, is expected to find a husband worthy of the Duke of Salisbury.

Since Noelle reached her twenty-first birthday her parents have been giving her ‘a look’ – in today’s world would probably be, “dating anyone interesting?”

This story starts just prior to a ball being given by their parents. There is one expected guess that her mother wants Noelle to be sure to save her first dance. Sometimes the expected just does not occur as anticipated. Follow the Duke and Duchess of Salisbury’s daughters’ journey to real love.

One of the two older sisters really could not care about the titles and such. Which one?

Who is Lord Drake?

Which of sisters does the Duke of Cumberland fall in love – the pragmatic one, the bluestocking, the one who loved attending and giving balls?

Which of our main three ‘gentlemen’ is actually self-center, and little caring what family or friend think?

James, Lord Edward, thought he was in love with one Lady but really it was another. Who held his heart?

Rated the story three stars because the story is long and mundane.

I received this book to read for the honest review given.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Noelle's family has thrown an a ball with hopes that she and her sister, Lady Caroline will make suitable matches with men who are titled. Her mother's choice for Noelle, since she is the oldest is Lord Alphonse Drake. Lord Drake decided not to come to the ball, but his friends, Mr Rodrick Edwards and his cousin, Lord James Edwards are there. Rodrick is most attracted to Noelle and James spends much of the time talking to Catherine.  Rodrick knows that he will not be enough for Noelle as he is not titled.  Lord Drake meets the two sisters but it is obvious that Lady Catherine is his choice. Lady Noelle does not care for Lord Drake but feels sorry for Lord Edwards as she is flirting with Lord Drake. One night, Noelle looks out of the window and sees Catherine running away with Lord Drake. It's a most sad situation. Will Noelle and Rodrick ever find happiness? Will this escapade of Catherine's cause a breach with her family and will she be ruined forever? So many questions.  I loved Mr Edwards as he is a honorable man. I hated Lord Drake as he reminds me of one of the villains of old. It's a clean book without any sex or kissing of unmarried people. It's a lovely book with heros, heroines and villains. Abby Ayles does it again. Her books rock.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Dukes and Duchesses make promises of their intended daughters to marriage. It is taken very Seriously in the Regency Era time! Especially according to the rules of society or the 'Ton'. The Duke of Salisbury has five daughters. His eldest daughter is Noelle and already promised to the Lord Of Fairfax. Noelle is not quite sure how she feels about him. He ignores her. Did a No Show at the Ball and left her waiting. Until his friend Roderick let Lady Noelle know not to expect him. But when the Lord of Fairfax meets Lady Noelle's sister, Catherine
he does nothing but dotes on her. He is a bit of a rogue. Dashing and handsome of course wealthy with title. But something just doesn't feel right with Noelle about him? Noelle is awakened in the night to see her sister Catherine sneaking out in the middle of the night with the Lord of the Fairfax. She has run away with him to be married! Roderick is in love with Lady Noelle title or no title and he decides to wait it out until he is accepted by the Duke and Duchess of Salisbury. This story was Wonderful!And I enjoyed reading how a Lady of Society has chose instead to be married with a commoner. She only wanted to marry for Love!!! Great Read as always from Abby.

[The Mysterious Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Regency Period romance stories and have been bingeing on them this weekend. Luckily for me, Abby Ayles is our with a new one. Loving A Lady is the “Clean & Sweet” story promised by its publisher and it’s a great one indeed. It’s also one that works because of its portrayal of victory of love over titles (though everyone here is of the Ton so we are not talking period-inappropriate extremes). Noelle may be a Duke’s daughter and Roderick untitled but their love is real. As noted at the end of the extended epilogue (available for free from the author via a link at the end of the book), “[t]itles and ranks did not matter as long as one was a decent person. It did not take a title for a person to be worthy of love and respect.” A lovely sentiment for a truly lovely book. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend.

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

ONE DELIGHTFUL READ!!!
Wow! Talk about landing smack dab in the middle of ground zero. This is one exciting, sweet and tender read that captivates as it captures your heart right from the start. With so many twists and turns, unexpected circumstances and unpredictable surprises around every corner that holds your attention as the tale unfolds. The characters and scenes are written with such realism it really pulls this little treasure together beautifully. Abby never ceases to amaze me with her insight and imagination that pulls us deep into a bygone era filled with romance and dreams. The vivid descriptions and depth she instills in each character is so believable it flows along smoothly and progresses naturally instead of being rushed. The scenes play off one another perfectly and not forced. She truly gives us a magnificent overview of the sights and attraction from those lazy days. Abby did a phenomenal job bringing this read to life flawlessly. Amazing job Abby, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noelle, being the eldest daughter of a Duke is expected to marry first. She must find a titled, rich man. Her parents wish her to find someone this season. They have arranged for her to meet Lord Alphonse Drake. Noelle isn't interested in him but she goes downstairs to the Ball telling herself she will be nice. The man doesn't show up. She meets two other gentlemen, Mr Rodrick Edwards and his cousin, Lord James Edwards. Rodrick is drawn to Noelle and James is interested in Noelle's sister Catherine. Noelle knows right away Rodrick is her kind of man. But he is not titled. He has money but her parents would never accept a man who didn't have a title. What is she to do? Marry for love? Or marry to keep her parents happy? A truly romantic story. Well thought out and well written.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.

[Danielle Carpenter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story very much, but I had some issues with the story. The author initially made the Marquess out as some kind of villain, but ends up he's in love with the wrong sister. I felt a real let down, because we never did find out the Marquess's real motives. Noelle is a genuine lady and a dutiful daughter, but she longs for a marriage of love. Roderick loves Noelle because of who she is and not who her family is. The story is well-written and the relationship between Roderick and Noelle is a wonderful friendship that turns to love.

[Andrea Stoeckel · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Titles and ranks did not matter as long as one was a decent person. It did not take a title for a person to be worthy of love and respect.”- Abby Ayles

When your family uses you to make alliances and you have no say, you certainly aren’t in contemporary England! Oldest daughter Noelle must get married so her sister can. However, when sister runs off with her suitor....now what does she do?

Roderick has money, but no title. He and Noelle are attracted to each other. Her parents insist her husband must have a peerage. Will love or duty win?

Abby Ayles is fast becoming a favorite Regency author. I really liked this book and highly recommend it. 5/5

[disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it]

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Noelle, as the oldest daughter of the Duke of Salisbury, has the duty to marry a man of status with a title. She believes in fulfilling her duty.

Rodrick Edwards has no title or status. He's happy with his mother. Then he meets Noelle at a ball held at her father's house. But she is to meet Marquess of Fairfax, her betrothed, but he is nowhere to be found.

How can Rodrick and Noelle fall in love when she is already betrothed? Where is her betrothed and what is Rodrick's connection to the Marquees of Fairfax?

This is another good book by Abby Ayles. Her books are clean and wholesome with a happily ever after. I voluntarily read an advanced copy and this is my honest opinion.bb

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me tell you that the characters in this book were quite memorable. It was easy to identify with the societal pressure and emotions of the hero and heroine of the story. The supporting characters left me with a deep impression as well. They were so well written that I felt that I either loved them, liked them, got annoyed with them or loathed them. The author, Abby Ayles, writes with such a wonderful rhythm that makes everything make sense. I really enjoyed reading this. I do recommend this book.

[Ada Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read. I Love everything this Author writes . She does a great job and brings out all the characters so well. You feel like your living the read with them Vicariously. Noelles got alot of pressure to find a husband worthy of being the son in law of duke of Salusbury. Will she find that happiness. A great read from first page to last.I couldn't put it down.I have all of Abby Ayles books and they are all great
I was given this read. But I definitely recommend this read.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy marrying for love and not a title

In the beginning of the book you get the pressure her parents are putting on Noelle to find a title and marry in North order. Her parents already have someone in mind but he's not really what she wants and then meets Mr.Edwards. The story was well written and lovely but in my opinion was not the best of Mrs. Ayles works. It was a sweet happily ever after though and we'll worth the time to read.

[Tina Meyers · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new to me author who writes wonderful historic romance. Captivating, humorous, romantic and with many twists and turns. Surprising what the stuffy ton can become when hearts are involved. Be sure to get the extended epilogue to answer end of book questions! Bravo! Look forward to reading more from this author!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this story of Noelle and Rodrick! They were in love almost at first sight, but her mother did not approve of him because he was not titled. So she was to marry Lord Drake, but Lord Drake fell in love with Noelle's younger sister. There was a lot of twist and turns in this story to keep you turning pages and a couple of surprises too. I recommend this book, you will love it.

[Audrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Noelle as the oldest daughter of a Duke is expected to marry first and marry well. When she falls for a man who is not titled her mother is very unhappy! But when Noelle’s younger sister Catherine runs off into the night with the man their mother wants Noelle to marry the whole family is in turmoil. The mother has taught her to follow the strict rules of the ton! I loved this book. It showed how fickle the ton could be and how restrictive the rules are for anyone with a title! The book had romance, conflict and adventure. I highly recommend this book for an lover of the regency period!

[JoAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

You can’t go wrong with any book written by Abby Ayles. I’ve loved each and every one of her stories. This book is no exception—this story is filled with surprising romances along with all the conflicts the ton always seems to cause with all their rules of who one can “properly” marry, etc…and the monkey wrench the younger sister throws into the mix was quite a surprise but comes at an opportune time. I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.

[Margaret Yelton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this to be a very enjoyable book too read. As the oldest daughter, Noelle is expected a man that her parents have picked out for her, because its her duty as the oldest daughter to make a acceptable match for society. Having said that she could have cared less about what society's expectations, the family was thrown into turmoil later in the storyline when things happen that are outside the parents expectations. The book was very well written, great characters.

[Delbora · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Enjoyable Story

Family expectations don’t always fit with self expectations. Noelle found herself in this position but she manages to be happy in the end as does her friends and family.

[Karen Hollon · Rating 5 out of 5]

If only to marry for love

Being the oldest daughter of a Duke is not all that one would think it is. This oldest daughter is expected to marry a gentleman who she has no interest in, just to please her father. She has met the man she would like to marry, but who her father would never approve of. Does she marry for love or approval of her father? Read this beautiful, clean story and see for yourself.

[Karin Gesell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book by author Abby Ayles and I quite enjoyed it! I love a good historical romance, and this was definitely it. So many different things and feelings going on. You can’t help but keep reading hoping love wins out in the end!! Will definitely be reading more from this author

[Myra Wray · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good read and I enjoyed it. I would not mind reading more in this line. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy.

[Debra Everett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story of love and almost sister betrayel . I couldn't stop reading it. It's nice to see a family let their oldest daughter marry who she wants thanks to the betrayal of a younger sister and a man who wants to play games. I give it a 5++++

[Ann Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful read

Lovely story. Noelle and Rodrick were such charming and engaging and characters. I really enjoyed the twists and turns in this book. A delightful romance.

[Patty · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had difficulty getting into this book. At first, I found it hard to figure out who the main character(s) were. Next I was struck by just how self centered and spoiled Noelle and her family were. The main themes seemed to be spoiled young women, flighty sisters and men of relatively “weak” character. The only two characters who were real enough to like were Rosicrucian and his cousin James. There were also interesting plot ideas suggested that never were expanded on. I also felt that some of the historical representation of courting in this time period was not quite accurate. Sorry, this novel just didn’t appeal to me in the end.

I per chance re read the ARC and extended epilogue 2 yrs after my first read. Impressions remain the same.

[Treasa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet and worth the time

Mr Rodrick Edwards isn't a gentleman of the ton. He has no business falling for Lady Noelle.. Lady Noelle is expected to marry a duke not a commoner. So why do they keep finding themselves in one another's company?
Abby Ayles brings life and love to recency romance in an easy to read fashion. I always enjoy her work.

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loving a Lady by Abby Ayles (A Clean and Sweet Regency Historical Romance) is an engaging tome about Noelle, the daughter of the Duke of Salisbury, who is currently on the husband hunt so common at the time. He mother is determined she marry a titles man, specifically the Marques of Fairfax, heir to the Duke of Cumberland. The problem seems to be meeting him as he hasn't shown up at any balls recently, including the one thrown by her parents, the Duke and Duchess of Salisbury. Meanwhile, Roderick Edwards, a wealthy but not titled gentleman is available to spend the evening with so she does. Her sister Catherine seems to be taken with Roderick's cousin, James, the Viscount of Eaton, so things are comfortable.

Loving a Lady is a delightful story of true love; no matter what strange turns it takes arriving. The characters are neatly drawn and easy to identify with and the plot is full of twists and turns. It is a charming tale full of happily-ever-after. An easy read but one for a day when something light and happy is required. I recommend it as a positive read for a rainy day.

I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Candy Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Noelle Fletcher was the eldest daughter of the Duke of Salisbury, it was expected for her to marry well. Her mother wanted her to marry the Marquess of Fairfax, but she was not comfortable with him. She had also met Mr. Roderick Edwards and enjoyed her time with him. He was sweet and gentle, and quiet spoken. There were five sisters Noelle, Catherine, Emma, Ann, and Beth the two youngest had not come out yet. She fell in love with Roderick, who was a commoner. They would not be allowed to marry, because of the difference in status. The characters seemed lifelike and fun. I liked where Catherine and Lord Drake ran way and headed for Gretna Green. The big problem was with the way they did it was rather sneaky. He had been selected by her parents for Noelle but they didn't like each other. The plot is twisty but the author kept track of all the little strings to make it is coherent,well written, and smooth moving. I really enjoyed it.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.